Crime defense lawyers in St. Joseph, MO. If you’ve been charged with, arrested for, or even questioned about a crime in St. Joseph, MO, you need the best possible legal representation fighting for you. No matter the severity of the crime – from minor infractions to more serious felonies – the crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are here to help.
These crime defense lawyers play a pivotal role in protecting the rights and freedoms of clients accused of criminal offenses in St. Joseph and throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is fully dedicated to providing expert representation and ensuring you receive fair and equitable treatment under the law.
Combs Waterkotte understands all too well that sometimes good people find themselves in bad situations, and we work to mitigate the effect criminal charges can have on you, your reputation, and your future. Call our St. Joseph, MO crime defense lawyers as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or conveniently contact us online for a free, confidential case evaluation. Our attorneys have over 60 years of combined experience, and our record of success speaks for itself.
Legal Videos
Can Federal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed?
Can Federal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek, lawyers with Combs Waterkotte, a leading federal criminal defense firm, talk about proffers, probation, and federal …
Should I Hire A Lawyer Experienced In Federal Defense?
Should I Hire A Lawyer Experienced In Federal Defense? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek from the leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte discuss the importance of hiring a lawyer with …
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration?
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration? Andrew Russek, a lawyer with leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte, discusses the sex offender registry and federal sex …
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State?
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs of Combs Waterkotte discuss factors that play into a sex crime being classified as federal, rather than …
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges?
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek of Combs Waterkotte discuss the most common federal sex crime charges. Interview Transcript Scott Michael Dunn: Well, let's …
Can Federal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed?
Can Federal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek, lawyers with Combs Waterkotte, a leading federal criminal defense firm, talk about proffers, probation, and federal …
Should I Hire A Lawyer Experienced In Federal Defense?
Should I Hire A Lawyer Experienced In Federal Defense? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek from the leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte discuss the importance of hiring a lawyer with …
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration?
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration? Andrew Russek, a lawyer with leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte, discusses the sex offender registry and federal sex …
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State?
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs of Combs Waterkotte discuss factors that play into a sex crime being classified as federal, rather than …
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges?
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek of Combs Waterkotte discuss the most common federal sex crime charges. Interview Transcript Scott Michael Dunn: Well, let's …
Understanding the Role of St. Joseph, MO Crime Defense Lawyers
The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers, also known as award-winning criminal defense attorneys in St. Joseph, MO, specialize in representing clients facing criminal charges and advocating for the best possible outcome in their case. Our knowledgeable attorneys defend all cases and criminal charges both at the state and federal level, including:
- DUIs and DWIs
- Motor Vehicle Tampering
- Assault and Battery
- Domestic Violence
- Theft/Larceny
- Probation Violations
- Drug Charges and Possession
- Drug Trafficking
- Gun Charges
- Sex Crimes
- Credit Card Fraud
- Murder
- View all criminal defense cases we take
Andrew County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Andrew County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in St. Joseph, MO: What’s the Difference Between State and Federal Crimes?
It’s important to understand that federal and state crimes have distinct characteristics, primarily shaped by the jurisdiction overseeing their prosecution and the legal frameworks governing them. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers are proficient in federal court proceedings in St. Joseph, MO and beyond. The following is a breakdown of the key disparities between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the St. Joseph, MO area transgress laws established by the U.S. federal government, which possess authority over nationwide matters. These offenses encompass activities spanning multiple states, violations occurring on federal premises such as military installations, federal buildings, and Native American territories, as well as crimes against governmental entities and acts of terrorism. Conversely, state crimes contravene statutes enacted by the Missouri state government, falling under the jurisdiction of state and local St. Joseph, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: In the realm of federal law, juries are assembled from broader geographical regions, typically encompassing entire federal districts. This fosters a diverse array of perspectives among jurors. Conversely, state juries often consist of individuals from more localized areas, reflecting the demographic makeup of their respective jurisdictions.
- Investigative Authorities: Federal law enforcement entities such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF are entrusted with investigating and prosecuting federal offenses, holding jurisdiction nationwide. Conversely, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, St. Joseph, MO municipal police forces, and sheriff departments in St. Joseph, MO and surrounding areas .
- Legal Frameworks: Federal crimes adhere to regulations outlined in the U.S. Code, a comprehensive compilation of federal statutes ratified by Congress. These laws are uniformly applicable across all states and territories. In contrast, state crimes are governed by distinct criminal codes specific to each state, covering an array of legal matters like criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property regulations.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are normally prosecuted in federal courts under the jurisdiction of federal judges. In contrast, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors representing state governments, adjudicated in state courts under the jurisdiction of state judges.
- Penalties: Federal penalties include probation, fines, imprisonment in federal corrections facilities, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes vary extensively, with each jurisdiction establishing its sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences like fines, probation, imprisonment in state penitentiaries or county jails, and parole.
Give the St. Joseph, MO lawyers at Combs Waterkotte a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for assistance with any state or federal charges you may be facing.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in St. Joseph, MO: Key Responsibilities
The Combs Waterkotte lawyers take on a range of crucial responsibilities to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients. Here’s what you expect when you enlist our legal representation:
- Legal Representation: Crime defense lawyers serve as advocates for their clients throughout the stages of the criminal justice programs, from pretrial investigations in St. Joseph, MO to courtroom proceedings. The Combs Waterkotte legal experts are fully transparent throughout your legal process, giving honest legal advice, strategizing defense tactics, and representing your interests during hearings and trials.
- Case Evaluation in St. Joseph, MO: One of the first steps of a crime defense lawyer is to thoroughly assess the details of your case. Our legal team reviews evidence, interviews witnesses, and identifies potential legal issues that could impact our defense. This comprehensive analysis allows us to develop an effective defense strategy tailored specifically to the circumstances of your St. Joseph, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in St. Joseph, MO excel at presenting compelling arguments on your behalf in court. We adeptly cross-examine witnesses, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and present evidence and testimony in support of the defense. Our goal is to cast reasonable doubt on the St. Joseph, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize the penalties imposed.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, your criminal defense lawyer will continue to advocate for your rights. Your attorney may file appeals, seek post-conviction relief, or pursue other legal remedies to overturn wrongful convictions or mitigate the consequences of a guilty verdict.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte, you can trust that our dedicated legal team will provide you with the individualized attention, expertise, and unwavering advocacy you deserve.
What’s the Importance of Crime Defense Lawyers in St. Joseph, MO?
Understanding the significance of crime defense lawyers is paramount when facing legal challenges in the St. Joseph, MO area. You need the Combs Waterkotte team on your side. Give us a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online. Here’s why enlisting the support of the Combs Waterkotte team is essential:
- Balancing the legal system in St. Joseph, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our St. Joseph, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every St. Joseph, MO case, whether at the state or federal level.
- Preserving your constitutional rights. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers ensure that if you’re accused of crimes, you are afforded due process and other constitutional protections guaranteed by the law. They safeguard your rights – including the right to a fair trial, the right to legal counsel, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
- Protecting against miscarriages of justice. Our criminal defense attorneys play a vital role in preventing miscarriages of justice. Their thorough investigation, diligent advocacy, and commitment to zealous representation help uncover the truth and make sure that justice is served.
- Ensuring assess to justice. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers provide essential legal representation to individuals from all walks of life throughout St. Joseph and across Missouri. Regardless of financial means, our team ensures that everyone has access to top-tier legal defense when facing criminal charges.
When you partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best crime defense lawyers in St. Joseph, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to crime defense, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in St. Joseph and beyond:
Combs Waterkotte
If you find yourself facing criminal charges in St. Joseph or anywhere else across Missouri, there’s no need to panic. Our team is here to provide the support and expertise you need during this challenging time. Our St. Joseph, MO crime defense lawyers are indispensable advocates who fight for your innocence.
Call Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation case review with one of our expert St. Joseph, MO attorneys.
